Apprenticeship
An earn while you learn workforce training model
What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is an earn-as-you-learn workforce training model. You’ll receive classroom instruction and on-the-job training to provide the specific knowledge needed to enter an industry. Apprentices earn a salary as they learn, and you can have a healthy, work-life balance. At the end of the apprenticeship you’ll have the skills and training required in a high-demand industry.
An apprenticeship may be right for you if you learn by doing! You like to build things, create things, and want your studies to be a hands on experience. Perhaps you’re worried about taking out a lot of student loans or just aren’t interested in an educational experience that is mostly reading from books. They usually require early morning start times, physical labor, and a valid driver's license. Apprenticeships allow you to start working right away and build skills on the job.
Explore Your Career Interests
There are many different types of skilled trades you can learn through an apprenticeship. Reflect on your interests, skills, and experiences by using the following tools:
Discover what trades might be a great fit for you through Virtual Job Shadow's assessments and videos. Login using your MPS school email and password.
Construction Careers.pdfThis overview walks you through all the possibilities, including career paths in both the trades and the professions, salaries and career outlook.
Research Programs
There are hundreds of local apprenticeships and unions available for you to join after high school. Take some time and research which one might be the best fit for you. Many apprenticeships will have their application listed on the union's website, and the application deadlines vary greatly.
Check out details for trades within the following categories: Construction & Systems, Machines & Manufacturing, and Vehicles & Engines.
Check out Construction Careers for a breakdown of Floor and Wall Trades, Mechanical and Electrical Trades, Site Preparation Trades, and others.
Find info about the 100+ occupations that offer apprenticeships in MN and employers that may have openings.
Explore careers, career videos, self-assessments, local job and training opportunities, and more.
Apply to an Apprenticeship Program
Each apprenticeship program has a different application process, and their applications will usually be listed on the union’s website. Prepare a resume, ask supervisors or teachers to be references for you, and get your driver's license before applying. You may have to take an aptitude test when you apply, but each program is different.
Visit the local unions' websites and the training centers directly to find out their application process. We have linked the common ones below, but most can be found on Construction Careers or Apprenticeship Minnesota.
Additional Information/Resources
SW Apprenticeships Info Sheet.pdfApprenticeship Info Sheet
Construction Training&Education Guide.xlsxConstruction Training & Education Guide